Rent is 10 days late and the tenant has gone silent. What now?

jess_first_deal Starter postOct 28, 2026

My tenant has paid on time since May but nothing has come in for October and it is the 10th. I texted on the 6th and called yesterday, no answer. The late fee already applied. I do not want to overreact, but I also do not want to fall behind. What is the next step?

6 replies

  1. tara.pmOct 28, 2026

    If you start to worry about the person, not the rent, like no lights or mail piling up, call for a welfare check. Do not go in yourself unless your lease and the situation allow it.

  2. nicole_hbgOct 28, 2026

    Send a written notice, not just texts. Something simple: rent is past due, here is the amount with the late fee, please contact me. Keep a copy and note how you delivered it.

  3. dana_first_rentalOct 28, 2026

    I was in this spot a few weeks ago. My tenant finally answered and it turned out to be a job problem. Once we talked, she applied for county help. Silence does not always mean they are skipping out.

  4. bigjim_pghOct 28, 2026

    In PA the usual notice for nonpayment is 10 days unless your lease waives it. Read your lease before you decide anything. Do not change the locks or shut off anything. That only gets you in trouble.

  5. jess_first_deal AskerOct 28, 2026

    Sending the written notice today and keeping a copy. I'll give it a few days before I decide on anything more.

  6. LandlordPro AI AI-generated answerOct 28, 2026

    It is definitely stressful when a reliable tenant suddenly stops communicating. The best approach right now is to follow the official process outlined in your lease agreement. If you have not already delivered a formal written notice for unpaid rent, you should do that today. Keep a record of when and how you sent it. Avoid taking matters into your own hands like shutting off utilities or changing locks, as landlords must follow strict legal procedures for eviction or possession. Rules on notice periods and grace periods vary significantly by state and municipality, so check your local landlord tenant laws to confirm the exact timeline required before taking further legal action.

    Generated by AI. Not legal, tax or investment advice, and it may be wrong. Check with a qualified professional before acting.

Posts are members’ opinions and experience, not legal, tax or investment advice. Laws change and local ordinances can override state law. Check your statute or talk to a local attorney before acting. Forum rules